This way to a better future

As the Business Journal reported, local political leaders have an opportunity next week to shape the way the Sacramento region will grow over the next 50 years ("Keep it moving," Nov. 26).

On Dec. 16, the Board of Directors of the Sacramento Area Council of Governments will consider adopting a vision for smarter growth as part of the Sacramento Region Blueprint Project, an effort launched two years ago by SACOG and civic partner Valley Vision.

The need for a new vision is clear. By 2050, the six-county region will add 1.7 million people, 840,000 homes and 1 million new jobs. If we continue our recent practice of building large-lot, low-density housing, the urbanized area will consume another 660 square miles of land. We'll have longer commutes, more vehicle trips, dirtier air and a deepening disconnect between where people live and where they work.

But that doesn't have to be our fate. Through the Blueprint project, more than 5,000 residents and their elected leaders helped craft an alternative vision that incorporates "smart growth" concepts such as higher-density, mixed-use developments and closer integration of jobs and housing.

By embracing these concepts, we can use far less land for growth and provide housing choices that more closely match the needs of an aging population. We can shorten commutes, reduce traffic nightmares and lessen our dependence on cars -- all while improving the quality of the air we breathe.

This vision resonates with the public. A recent scientific poll found broad support for smart growth in the region. The Blueprint project is getting attention outside the region as well. Most recently, it won accolades from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, adding to a string of awards for the effort.

Blueprint's real achievement is defining smart growth for the Sacramento region. Local officials, business leaders, members of the public and media such as the Business Journal staff are to be commended for their interest in the region's future and for helping articulate a more livable vision.